Top Tips for the ACT Writing Test | Science for ACT PDF Download

Top Tips for Success on the New ACT Essay

Tip 1

• Opt to agree with one of the three provided perspectives instead of presenting your own. By agreeing with one of the perspectives, you can still achieve a perfect score and avoid the difficulty of developing a fourth perspective within the limited time frame. It's best to stay on topic and not veer off track.

Tip 2

• Avoid being indecisive. Take a firm stance and choose a side. While you need to evaluate all three perspectives, it doesn't mean you should agree with all of them. At least two perspectives will likely conflict with each other, so develop and support your own argument by aligning with the perspectives that bolster your position and challenging those that don't.

Tip 3

• When selecting your perspective, consider the one for which you can easily generate specific examples, even if you don't necessarily agree with it.

Tip 4

• Structure your essay using the traditional five-paragraph format. Begin with an introduction containing a clear thesis statement, followed by one body paragraph for each perspective (concluding with the one that aligns best with your viewpoint). Provide concrete evidence for each perspective, and conclude with a paragraph that ties everything together.

Tip 5

• It can be beneficial to include counter-arguments and relevant examples regarding the perspectives you don't agree with, as long as they are valid criticisms. Avoid weak counter-arguments that may undermine your position.

Tip 6

• Aim to incorporate a variety of evidence types, including historical circumstances, personal examples, common knowledge, and objective reasoning. This diverse range of evidence strengthens your argument and enhances its persuasiveness, leading to a higher score.

Tip 7

• Ensure your handwriting is legible. Even if your essay contains great content, if the graders can't read it, it will receive a zero score.

Tip 8

• Refrain from excessively editing as you write. It's acceptable to make minor word changes, but don't obsess over perfection in a 40-minute essay. The graders understand the time constraints you face.

Tip 9

• Keep track of time during the essay. Allocate approximately 10-15 minutes for prewriting, 20-25 minutes for writing, and 2-3 minutes for proofreading. Wearing a watch will help you monitor the remaining time accurately since proctors may not consistently remind you. Every minute counts in the essay section, and remember, you won't be allowed to use your phone to keep track of time!